John Ray, Author at Business RadioX ® Page

Mastering Enterprise Risk Management with Steven Lustig, Lustig Global Solutions

February 10, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Mastering Enterprise Risk Management with Steven Lustig, Lustig Global Solutions

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Mastering Enterprise Risk Management with Steven Lustig, Lustig Global Solutions (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 843)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Steven Lustig from Lustig Global Solutions. The discussion delves into the critical importance of enterprise risk management (ERM) for small and medium-sized businesses. Steven shares his extensive experience in engineering and operations, highlighting how managing risk can improve business outcomes. He explains the concept of ERM, addressing both negative risks and opportunities, and dispels myths about risk management. The conversation covers practical steps for companies to identify, prioritize, and mitigate risks effectively. Steven emphasizes the customizable and scalable nature of ERM, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes. He also shares real-life success stories of implementing ERM and its benefits. Listen to this episode to learn how a structured risk management approach can safeguard your business’s future.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Steven Lustig, Lustig Global Solutions

Lustig Global Consulting enhances company value, profitability, and cash flow while addressing key risks that they face by establishing robust, effective supply chain and manufacturing solutions and enterprise risk management programs.

Steven Lustig is a strategic operations executive with 20+ years of experience who held leadership positions in supply chain, project management, manufacturing, and new product introduction at companies ranging from a start-up to a Fortune 100 firm.

Steven has earned Enterprise Risk Management Certified Professional and Six Sigma Green Belt certifications and the Project Management Professional (PMP) designation. He holds a BSME from MIT and MSME and MBA degrees from Georgia Tech.

Website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:50 Meet Steven Lustig: The Risk Management Expert
04:19 Understanding Enterprise Risk Management
06:57 Common Myths About Risk Management
12:39 Real-World Risk Examples and Lessons from the Pandemic
19:38 How to Engage with a Risk Management Consultant
30:00 Success Stories and Final Thoughts
32:47 Closing Remarks and Announcements

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions, with over $17 billion in assets and more than 180 banking, lending, wealth management, and financial services offices throughout the region. All of Renasant’s success stems from each banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way to better understand the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

With over 800 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in our community like no one else. We are the undisputed “Voice of Business” in North Fulton!

The show invites a diverse range of business, non-profit, and community leaders to share their significant contributions to their market, community, and profession. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates business by sharing positive business stories that traditional media ignore. Some media lean left. Some media lean right. We lean business.

John Ray, Business RadioX - North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors — **John Ray, Business RadioX – North Fulton, and Owner, Ray Business Advisors**

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, and many others.

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John Ray also operates his own business advisory practice. John’s services include advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their value, their positioning and business development, and their pricing. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as consultants, coaches, attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Empowering Women to Prioritize Themselves, with Cynthia Lyles, The Tapestry of Love

February 6, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Women to Prioritize Themselves, with Cynthia Lyles, The Tapestry of Love

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Empowering Women to Prioritize Themselves, with Cynthia Lyles, The Tapestry of Love (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 842)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray interviews Cynthia Lyles, founder of The Tapestry of Love. Cynthia shares her journey from California Highway Patrol dispatcher to life coach, focusing on helping women who have neglected their own needs for the sake of others. She discusses the inspiration behind her work, her personal experiences with caregiving, and the cultural influences that lead women to sacrifice their own well-being. Cynthia offers insights into her coaching process, including the importance of individual assessments and understanding personal temperaments. She also highlights her free group sessions and upcoming events, aiming to create a supportive community for women striving to reconnect with their goals, needs, and self-worth.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Cynthia Lyles, The Tapestry of Love

Cynthia Lyles founded The Tapestry of Love, a transformative coaching platform that empowers women to navigate life’s most challenging transitions. With a robust background in communications and a profound passion for advocacy, Cynthia has built a powerful mission around helping women rediscover their strength, resilience, and personal purpose during times of crisis and significant life changes.

Through her personalized coaching approach, Cynthia provides women with the tools, support, and strategic guidance needed to move beyond survival and into a space of genuine thriving. Her work is deeply rooted in the belief that every woman has the inner capacity to rise with grace, rebuild her confidence, and craft a meaningful life narrative, even in the face of profound personal challenges.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to North Fulton Business Radio
01:44 Guest Introduction: Cynthia Lyles
01:54 Cynthia’s Background and The Tapestry of Love
04:46 Challenges Faced by Women
06:38 Personal Stories and Client Successes
14:37 Coaching Approach and Techniques
24:30 Upcoming Events and Contact Information
27:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Lessons in Pricing, Value, and Funk, with Chris Lalomia, The Trusted Toolbox

February 5, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Lessons in Pricing, Value, and Funk, with Chris Lalomia, The Trusted Toolbox

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Lessons in Pricing, Value, and Funk, with Chris Lalomia, The Trusted Toolbox (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 121)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray chats with Chris Lalomia, owner of The Trusted Toolbox, the largest handyman service in Atlanta and in the top three nationwide. Chris discusses his journey from a successful corporate career to entrepreneurship, highlighting the challenges and insights he gained from starting his business from scratch. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, overcoming funks, and the impact of pricing and value on business success. Chris also highlights the significance of mentorship, setting the right prices, and recognizing the value delivered to customers. His insights include the necessity of understanding one’s business costs, process development, and customer relationships, culminating in the personal growth and business achievements he’s made.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Chris Lalomia, Founder and CEO, The Trusted Toolbox

Chris Lalomia is the CEO of The Trusted Toolbox. He also hosts the Small Business Safari podcast and is the author of the book From the Zoo to the Wild: Your Guide to Entrepreneurial Freedom and Wealth.

Chris Lalomia is a successful entrepreneur and change leader who has built on his experience working with the largest companies in America to start his own business from scratch. He brings his unique style to leadership to build a culture of professionalism in the blue-collar world of home renovations. He left the corporate zoo, ventured into the entrepreneurial wild and started The Trusted Toolbox: Home Repair and Projects in 2008. YES, he started a business right before the Great Recession, so he admits that timing the market is not his strength. He survived through that time and has grown his business into a multimillion-dollar handyman and remodeling company, which has won numerous awards in Atlanta, GA.

Chris is originally from Jackson, MI, and he uses his hand to show where he lives. He went to college and earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mechanical engineering. His path to business ownership was similar to most people’s journey to their current position… spinning and winding… His first engineering job was at Curtiss-Wright Flight Systems making airplane parts, but soon realizing he needed to add some other business skills to his resume, he joined Accenture and began working with large banks to help them merge, which led him to SunTrust (now Truist), where he transformed the commercial loan operations department… That meandering path led him to leap into starting his own business, The Trusted Toolbox, in 2008.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

The Trusted Toolbox

The Trusted Toolbox is a leading provider of professional handyman services and home remodeling solutions in the Metro Atlanta area. With over 15 years of experience serving over 16,000 homeowners, the company specializes in a wide range of home repair and improvement projects, including kitchen and bathroom remodels, basement renovations, deck repairs, door replacements, and wood rot repair.

Committed to delivering exceptional results with a customer-centric approach, The Trusted Toolbox employs a team of skilled professionals who are fully insured, background checked, and dedicated to ensuring 100% customer satisfaction. The company’s local expertise, efficiency, and attention to detail have earned it numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as a trusted partner for homeowners in Alpharetta, Atlanta, Athens, and the surrounding areas.

Website | Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to Chris Lalomia
00:50 Corporate Life to Entrepreneurship
01:29 The Zoo Metaphor
02:44 Challenges of Leaving Corporate
07:27 Mindset Shifts and Skill Development
16:14 Mentorship and Networking
21:52 Pricing Strategies and Value
29:32 Customer Willingness to Pay for Convenience
29:42 Understanding Millennial and Gen X Mindsets
30:49 The Shift from DIY to Outsourcing
33:41 Training Employees to Reflect Company Values
35:39 The Importance of Reviews and Customer Feedback
40:17 Overcoming Business Challenges and Personal Funk
51:53 Future Goals and Business Expansion
54:59 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey

The title of this show describes the journey all professional service providers are on: building a services practice by seeking to convince the world of the value we offer, helping clients achieve the outcomes they desire, and trying to do all that at pricing that reflects the value we deliver.

If you feel like you’re working too hard for too little money in your solo or small firm practice, this show is for you. Even if you’re reasonably happy with your practice, you’ll hear ways to improve both your bottom line and the mindset you bring to your business.

The show is hosted and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can also be found on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Author of The Generosity Mindset and Host of "The Price and Value Journey" — John Ray, Author of *The Generosity Mindset* and Host of *The Price and Value Journey*

John Ray is the host of The Price and Value Journey.

John owns Ray Business Advisors, a business advisory practice. John’s services include business coaching and advisory work, as well as advising solopreneurs and small professional services firms on their pricing. John is passionate about the power of pricing for business owners, as changing pricing is the fastest way to change the profitability of a business. His clients are professionals who are selling their expertise, such as attorneys, CPAs, accountants and bookkeepers, consultants, coaches, marketing professionals, and other professional services practitioners.

In his other business, John is a podcast show host and producer and owns the North Fulton (Georgia) affiliate of Business RadioX®. John and his team work with B2B professionals to create and conduct their own podcast using The Generosity Mindset™ Method: building and deepening relationships in a non-salesy way that translates into revenue for their business.

John is also the host of North Fulton Business Radio. With over 800 shows and having featured over 1,200 guests, North Fulton Business Radio is the longest-running podcast in the North Fulton area, covering business in its region like no one else.

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

John is the #1 national best-selling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

If you are a professional services provider, your goal is to do transformative work for clients you love working with and get paid commensurate with the value you deliver to those clients. While negative mindsets can inhibit your growth, adopting a different mindset, The Generosity Mindset™, can replace those self-limiting beliefs. The Generosity Mindset enables you to diagnose and communicate the value you deliver to clients and, in turn, more effectively price to receive a portion of that value.

Whether you’re a consultant, coach, marketing or branding professional, business advisor, attorney, CPA, or work in virtually any other professional services discipline, your content and technical expertise are not proprietary. What’s unique, though, is your experience and how you synthesize and deliver your knowledge. What’s special is your demeanor or the way you deal with your best-fit clients. What’s invaluable is how you deliver great value by guiding people through massive changes in their personal lives and in their businesses that bring them to a place they never thought possible.

The combination of all these elements is quite different for you compared to any other service provider in your industry. Therein lies your value, but it’s not the value you see. It’s the value your best-fit customers see in you.

If pricing your value feels uncomfortable or unfamiliar to you, this book will teach you why putting a price on the value your clients perceive and identify serves both them and you, and you’ll learn the factors involved in getting your price right.

The book is available at all major physical and online book retailers worldwide. Follow this link for further details.

Connect with John Ray:

Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

Rebuilding Life After Gray Divorce, with Author Pat Fenner

February 4, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Rebuilding Life After Gray Divorce, with Author Pat Fenner

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Rebuilding Life After Gray Divorce, with Author Pat Fenner (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 841)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray speaks with Pat Fenner, a podcast producer, author, and host of the Silver Women, Bright Future podcast. Pat shares her personal journey through a gray divorce and how she transitioned this experience into a mission to support other women going through similar challenges. She discusses her book, Rebuilding Your Life After a Gray Divorce: A Path to Healing, Significance, and Joy, and highlights strategies for overcoming financial setbacks, rebuilding self-image, and finding gratitude amidst turmoil. The conversation also covers Pat’s work in podcast production and financial advisory, emphasizing the critical need for financial literacy and emotional support for women in midlife transitions.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Pat Fenner, Author and Podcaster

Pat Fenner is a devoted advocate for personal transformation and healing. As an accomplished author and podcast producer, Pat has dedicated her career to empowering women, particularly those navigating the challenging waters of post-divorce life. In her latest book, Rebuilding Your Life After a Gray Divorce: A Path to Healing, Significance, and Joy, Pat draws on her own experiences and years of mentoring to offer a lifeline to women struggling to find their footing after a “gray divorce.”

With a compassionate voice and a deep understanding of the emotional and spiritual upheavals faced in later-life separations, Pat has crafted the STRENGTHS framework. This guide is designed to help women savor simplicity, rebuild trust, and embrace a future filled with peace, purpose, and joy. Her approach is deeply practical, rooted in real-life stories, biblical wisdom, and actionable strategies encouraging women to reclaim their lives and rediscover joy.

Beyond her writing, Pat produces the engaging and insightful podcast Silver Women, Bright Future which serves as a platform to discover resilience, healing, and personal growth. She aims to inspire listeners to move forward with grace and strength. Whether through her book or her podcasts, Pat Fenner is passionate about helping others rewrite their stories, proving that the journey doesn’t end post-divorce—it transforms.

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
01:56 Guest Introduction: Pat Fenner
02:37 Pat’s Journey into Podcasting
03:52 Experiencing and Overcoming Gray Divorce
06:32 Rebuilding Life After Divorce
11:01 Challenges and Commonalities in Gray Divorce
15:40 Rebuilding Trust and Moving Forward
20:32 Moving On from Divorce
21:04 The Healing Power of Writing and Podcasting
23:45 Empowering Women Through Coaching
25:27 Financial Challenges of Gray Divorce
27:19 The Emotional Journey of Financial Planning
30:34 Maintaining Stamina and Self-Care
33:57 Sharing Stories of Healing and Transformation
37:37 Connecting with Pat Fenner

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Finding Divine Purpose in Life’s Journey, with Carter Nelms, Actor

January 29, 2025 by John Ray

Hello, Self . . .

Finding Divine Purpose in Life's Journey, with Carter Nelms, Actor

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Finding Divine Purpose in Life’s Journey, with Carter Nelms, Actor (Hello, Self… Episode 60)

In this episode of the Hello, Self podcast, host Patricia Leonard welcomed guest Carter Nelms, a diverse actor and software engineer. Carter discussed his dynamic career, his varied roles in film and television, and his spiritual journey.

He shared key life moments, emphasizing the importance of faith, divine timing, and remaining open to new opportunities. He and Patricia discussed the disruptions that led him to new beginnings and the significance of maintaining a spiritual path amidst life’s challenges.

Hello, Self… is presented by Patricia Leonard & Associates and produced by Arlia Hoffman in association with the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

A video version of this conversation is available on Patricia’s YouTube Channel here.

Carter Nelms, Actor and Software Engineer

Carter Nelms is an actor and software engineer based in Nashville, Tennessee. His acting work spans theatre, film, tv, commercial and voiceovers.

Carter studied mechanical engineering in college, made a switch over to software engineering and attended Nashville Software School in 2014.

Website | Instagram | IMDb

About Hello, Self…

Hello, Self… is a biweekly podcast focused on inspiring stories of turning dreams into reality. Join coach and author Patricia Leonard and her guests as they share life-changing Hello, Self… moments.

Hello, Self… is brought to you by Patricia Leonard & Associates and is based on the new book by Patricia Leonard, Hello, Self.., available here.

The show is produced by Arlia Hoffman in association with Business RadioX®. You can find this show on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

Patricia Leonard, Host of Hello, Self…

Patricia Leonard is President of RUNWAY TO SUCCESS, a division of Patricia Leonard & Associates located in Nashville, TN. She is a MESSAGE ARTIST speaker, career & business coach, author and magazine columnist. Patricia consults with clients on leadership, empowerment, career management, entrepreneurship and the power of language. Her work is focused on helping clients find their runway to success!

She has a professional background in management, human resources, corporate training, business consulting and talent development. Patricia has worked with companies in the service, music, banking, manufacturing, publishing, warehousing, healthcare, academic, retail and financial industries, and has taught management classes as an adjunct professor.

Patricia has a degree in Human Resource Management, is certified as a Career Coach and Consulting Hypnotist and is MBTI qualified.

Her volunteer energies are focused on Women in Film and Television-Nashville, where she is a Board Vice President; Dress for Success as the Advisory Board President; and International Coaching Federation-Nashville where she held Board roles for several years.

Patricia is the author of Wearing High Heels in a Flip Flop World, BECOMING WOMAN…a journal of personal discovery, THE NOW, HOW & WOW of Success, Happenings, a full year calendar of inspirational messages and a spoken word album titled, I AM…

She enjoys songwriting, creating poetry and has written a one-woman show and artistic speech she performs titled Hello, Self…, about a woman in midlife reinventing herself, which led to her new book by the same name, available here.

On the personal side, Patricia, describes herself as a woman, lover of life, mother, grandmother, career professional and message artist; AND in that order! Her goal is to continue inspiring others, of any age, to START NOW creating and expanding their Runway to Success.

She believes that life is a gift, the way we wrap it is our choice.

Connect with Patricia:

Website| LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Empowering Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults, with Meg Blackwood, InCommunity

January 29, 2025 by John Ray

Empowering Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults: A Conversation with Meg Blackwood, CEO of InCommunity

North Fulton Business Radio

Empowering Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults, with Meg Blackwood, InCommunity

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Empowering Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults: A Conversation with Meg Blackwood, CEO of InCommunity (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 840)

In this episode of North Fulton Business Radio, host John Ray speaks with Meg Blackwood, CEO of InCommunity, about the organization’s mission to support intellectually and developmentally disabled adults. Meg shares her passion for the cause, driven by a personal connection, and discusses the variety of services InCommunity offers, including residential care, employability programs, day services, and the unique host program. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by the intellectually disabled adult population, especially in terms of affordable housing and the need for robust support networks. Meg highlights the significant contributions of direct support professionals (DSPs) and calls for increased community support through donations, volunteer opportunities, and corporate partnerships. Listen to learn about the impactful work of InCommunity and how you can get involved.

John Ray is the host of North Fulton Business Radio. The show is recorded and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Meg Blackwood, CEO, InCommunity

Meg Blackwood is the CEO of InCommunity, a leading Atlanta-based non-profit organization with a 45-year legacy dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With over two decades of experience advising and defending a wide range of entities, from governmental bodies to Fortune 500 corporations, Meg brings a wealth of expertise to her leadership role at InCommunity.

Before joining InCommunity, Meg had a distinguished career in the legal sector. She began as an Associate Attorney, spending 13 years in private practice at various Atlanta law firms.

In 2015, she was recruited by Colonial Pipeline Company as its employment counsel. Her ability to remain composed under pressure and her strategic approach to crisis management led to her rapid advancement within the company, culminating in her role as Deputy General Counsel. During her tenure, Meg was instrumental in guiding Colonial Pipeline through multiple high-profile challenges, including two major pipeline incidents, and navigating complex government investigations. Her hands-on approach and dedication to field teams earned her the respect and trust of colleagues across the organization.

In 2021, Meg was tasked with establishing Colonial’s Public Affairs function, focusing on building and maintaining trusted partnerships within the communities served by the company. She spearheaded the company’s charitable contributions program, managing the distribution of approximately $1,000,000 in grants annually. In this role, she engaged directly with community leaders and non-profit organizations to identify challenges and develop effective support strategies. Meg also served as a spokesperson for Colonial, representing the company to the media, government officials, and the public.

Meg holds a degree from the College of William and Mary and earned her J.D. from Emory University School of Law. She resides in Buckhead with her husband, Lanny, a teacher and coach at Greater Atlanta Christian School, and their three children: Land (16), Margaret Bailey (12), and Ridge (10). Outside of her professional endeavors, Meg enjoys traveling with her family, especially to the beach, cooking, and volunteering in her community. She and her family are active members of Peachtree Road United Methodist Church.

InCommunity

Originally founded in 1979, InCommunity, a non-profit agency headquartered in Atlanta, was created to provide community-based services and support to people with disabilities and their families.

For almost 35 years, InCommunity has been embracing the abilities in all of us, building an outstanding reputation in Georgia for innovative programs and willingness to take on challenging support situations for people in their communities.

Currently, InCommunity has more than 650 employees who provide all levels of support in the community to people with a variety of needs, including residential support, employment services, respite care, family support, in-home care, and day programs.

To date, InCommunity has provided support and service to more than 10,000 Georgian community members.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to North Fulton Business Radio
01:41 Guest Introduction: Meg Blackwood
01:56 Meg Blackwood’s Background and Role
03:38 Challenges Faced by Intellectually Disabled Adults
06:28 InCommunity’s History and Services
08:30 Residential Care and Housing Challenges
10:57 Employment and Day Programs
13:12 Volunteer and Corporate Partnerships
15:21 Future Goals and Community Engagement
21:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

The show welcomes a wide variety of business, non-profit, and community leaders to get the word out about the important work they’re doing to serve their market, their community, and their profession. There’s no discrimination based on company size, and there’s never any “pay to play.” North Fulton Business Radio supports and celebrates business by sharing positive business stories that traditional media ignore. Some media leans left. Some media leans right. We lean business.

The studio address is 275 South Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009.

John is the national bestselling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

Plant Vogtle and Georgia’s Energy Future, with Kelley Balkcom, Georgia Power

January 29, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Plant Vogtle and Georgia's Energy Future, with Kelley Balkcom, Georgia Power

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Plant Vogtle and Georgia’s Energy Future, with Kelley Balkcom, Georgia Power (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 103)

In this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider, Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, interviews Kelley Balkcom, Region Executive for Georgia Power. They discuss the pivotal role of Plant Vogtle in securing Georgia’s energy future, highlighting its significance as the first new nuclear unit built in the U.S. in over three decades. Kelley shares insights about her background, Georgia Power’s integrated resource planning, the challenges and successes of developing Plant Vogtle’s new units, and the importance of diverse energy sources. They also touch on Georgia’s distinction as the “best state to do business,” workforce development, and what North Fulton residents and businesses can expect from these advancements.

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Kelley Balkcom, Region Executive, Georgia Power

Kelley Balkcom serves as the Metro North Region Executive at Georgia Power Company where she manages external affairs for the Gwinnett, North DeKalb, North Fulton and Forsyth areas.

Prior to her current role, Kelley was leading the company’s Regulatory Affairs team. In this role, Kelley was responsible for developing and implementing regulatory strategies as well as building and maintaining constructive relationships with key external stakeholders impacting Georgia’s energy policy decisions. Key successful accomplishments include: 2022 Integrated Resource Plan, 2022 Rate Case, Fuel Case, Vogtle 3 & 4 Prudence Review, and 2023 Integrated Resource Plan Update.

Her career began at Georgia Power Company in 2003 in the sales organization. She was a member of the Key Account team, where she provided dedicated customer service and sales support to large business customers. Kelley has also worked within the Pricing & Rates organization, where she supported business customers with tariff analyses. In addition to her various marketing and sales positions, Kelley worked in the Customer Service Operations Financial Support organization, where she served as a financial comptroller, supporting statewide operations teams.

Over the years, Kelley has led various teams focused on providing technical analyses, customer service, sales and energy efficiency support to statewide residential and business customer markets. Prior to joining Regulatory Affairs, Kelley supported the Executive Vice President of External Affairs & Nuclear Development, where she was responsible for broad support of goal achievement among the organization’s cross-functional teams.

Born and raised in the Atlanta area, Kelley earned a B.B.A. in Finance from the University of Georgia in 2003. She received her M.B.A. from Mercer University in 2009. She participated in the inaugural Georgia Chamber High Potentials program in 2018 and recently served on the University of Georgia’s Board of Visitors. She is a member of Leadership Georgia’s Class of 2020-2021, a member of New Mexico State’s Center for Public Utilities and a participant in the Atlanta Women’s Foundation 2025 Inspire program.

Georgia Power

High reliability, low prices, and high customer satisfaction are cornerstones of the Georgia Powers’s commitment to its customers, but its dedication extends beyond these principles. Equally committed to giving back to the communities it serves, the company continues to uphold its vision of being “A Citizen Wherever We Serve,” a philosophy established more than 100 years ago by its first president, Preston Arkwright Sr.

As the largest subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), one of the nation’s largest electricity generators, the company serves 2.5 million customers across all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Its foundation is built on value, reliability, customer service, and stewardship. Focused on delivering clean, safe, reliable, and affordable energy at rates below the national average, it maintains a diverse and innovative generation mix, incorporating nuclear, 21st-century coal, natural gas, and renewable sources such as solar, hydroelectric, and wind.

Dedicated to providing world-class service, the company consistently earns recognition from J.D. Power and Associates as an industry leader in customer satisfaction.

Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to the GNFCC 400 Insider
00:42 Meet Kelley Balkcom: Georgia Power’s Regional Executive
02:56 The Significance of Plant Vogtle
04:54 Challenges and Triumphs in Nuclear Energy
06:15 Understanding Clean Energy and Nuclear Power
07:53 Georgia’s Diverse Energy Portfolio
13:07 The Future of Energy in Georgia
22:13 Workforce Development and Opportunities
25:09 Touring Plant Vogtle
26:59 Conclusion and Contact Information

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) — **Kali Boatright, President and CEO of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce**

The GNFCC 400 Insider is sponsored by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC), and the host of the show is Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC.

The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1,400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth, and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

As a five-star accredited chamber, GNFCC’s vision is to be the premier organization driving member and community success across the region, and they are dedicated to pursuing this vision based on the guiding principles of advocacy, inclusivity, and operational excellence.

GNFCC promotes the interests of their members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play, and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision-makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events, follow this link.

Scaling with Distributed Remote Teams, with Adam Houlahan, Prominence Global

January 29, 2025 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Scaling with Distributed Remote Teams, with Adam Houlahan, Prominence Global

00:00 /

Scaling with Distributed Remote Teams, with Adam Houlahan, Prominence Global (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 120)

In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray interviews Adam Houlahan, CEO of Prominence Global, about building and scaling businesses with remote teams. Adam, a LinkedIn expert and author of The Distributed Teams Blueprint, shares insights from his experience in creating a globally distributed team. He discusses the challenges, and solutions of managing remote teams, including cybersecurity, cultural differences, and maintaining trust. The episode also highlights the benefits of leveraging remote team members, such as cost savings and access to a broader talent pool. Adam further discusses strategies for effective team communication, the role of technology and AI, and tips for business owners looking to expand globally.

The Price and Value Journey is presented by John Ray and produced by the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Adam Houlahan, CEO, Prominence Global

Adam Houlahan is a renowned LinkedIn expert and entrepreneur who has made significant contributions to digital marketing and business strategy. In 2014, he founded Prominence Global, an award-winning agency dedicated to developing cutting-edge lead generation and personal branding strategies. The agency was recently voted Australia’s most Innovative Social Media Marketing Agency for 2024 in the Australian Enterprise Awards.

He is a prestigious Top Voice on LinkedIn and an international keynote speaker specializing in LinkedIn strategies for entrepreneurs. Houlahan has authored four Amazon bestselling books, including Social Media Secret Sauce, The LinkedIn Playbook, and Influencer. His latest book, The Distributed Teams Blueprint: Leveraging Remote Teams to Scale Your Business, provides insights into effectively managing and integrating distributed teams. Prominence Global also hosts the world’s largest free online LinkedIn training event, which attracted over fifteen thousand registrants in 2024 and is considered one of the most impactful training events for leveraging LinkedIn for business.

Prominence Global

Prominence Global, founded in 2014, helps clients establish themselves as industry leaders on LinkedIn. In 2024, the company launched Remote Team Connect, enabling businesses to build distributed global teams at 75% less cost than hiring for similar roles in Western countries. Prominence Global, dedicated to authenticity, transparency, and integrity, creates intelligent lead generation strategies that effectively navigate the complexity of social media. Ethics are embedded in its DNA, ensuring that marketing efforts align with principled business practices. The company prioritizes continuous improvement through innovation and tailors its solutions to meet the specific needs of each client, instead of providing generic programs.

With a belief in the power of entrepreneurs to drive meaningful change, Prominence Global creates powerful LinkedIn presences that expand and accelerate clients’ global footprints. By 2025, the company is set to surpass 12 million global impacts created. Prominence Global provides the LinkedIn La Carte Program, the LinkedIn Corporate Program, and the Remote Team Connect Program to assist businesses in optimizing their LinkedIn strategy and expanding their global reach. Each program delves deeply, utilizing a cutting-edge, results-driven methodology to construct high-performing lead-generation sales funnels across various industries. Additionally, the company provides affordable, highly functional distributed teams worldwide, helping businesses scale efficiently.

Company website | LinkedIn

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction and Welcome to The Price and Value Journey
00:41 Meet Adam Houlahan, Prominence Global
02:47 The Inspiration Behind the Book
04:20 Transition to a Fully Remote Team
08:45 Building Effective Remote Teams
17:59 Overcoming Challenges in Remote Work
25:53 Cybersecurity in Remote Teams
30:32 Maintaining Trust and Relationships
34:59 Leveraging AI and Future Trends
38:36 About Prominence Global and Services
43:34 Conclusion and Contact Information

About The Price and Value Journey

The show is hosted and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can also be found on all the major podcast apps. The complete show archive is here.

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John Ray is the host of The Price and Value Journey.

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

John is the #1 national best-selling author of The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices.

The book is available at all major physical and online book retailers worldwide. Follow this link for further details.

Connect with John Ray:

Website | LinkedIn | Twitter

Business RadioX®: LinkedIn | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram

The Evolution of Specialty Medical Marketing, with Chris Suchánek, Firm Media

January 28, 2025 by John Ray

Dental Business Radio

The Evolution of Specialty Medical Marketing, with Chris Suchánek, Firm Media

00:00 /

The Evolution of Specialty Medical Marketing, with Chris Suchánek, Firm Media (Dental Business Radio, Episode 56)

In this episode of Dental Business Radio, host Patrick O’Rourke welcomes Chris Suchánek, CEO of Firm Media, to discuss the latest trends in specialty medical marketing. The episode explores the evolution of marketing in the dental and medical fields, emphasizing the impact of AI on both digital and traditional marketing strategies. Chris highlights the importance of market exclusivity, effective budgeting, and measuring ROI to achieve successful marketing outcomes. The episode also touches on Chris’s speaking engagements, his contributions to Forbes and Brainz magazines, and his passion for combat sports photography. The conversation provides valuable insights for dental and medical professionals looking to enhance their marketing efforts and business growth.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient: PPO Negotiations & Analysis and produced by John Ray and the North Fulton affiliate of Business RadioX®.

Chris Suchánek, CEO, Firm Media

Chris Suchánek, Firm Media — **Chris Suchánek**

As CEO and co-founder of Firm Media, an award-winning national medical marketing agency, Chris has launched innovative brands, including Omniblend Advertising™, MediLearn360™, ReputationNest™, and the forthcoming Ailm Atelier™. He is a Forbes™ Author & Agency Council Member, Executive Contributor for Brainz™ Magazine, and an internationally recognized speaker on specialty medical branding and marketing.

Chris offers insights on the latest trends in digital marketing, brand development, and patient engagement, drawing from his extensive experience and ongoing success. He is a skilled team builder and leader known for driving results through a combination of strategic vision and hands-on mentorship.

Chris is also passionate about achieving greatness through quality and consistency, a philosophy that has been instrumental in the success of Firm Media and its affiliated brands. He is a dynamic and engaging thought leader, offering clients a wealth of knowledge and a clear roadmap to elevate their marketing efforts.

Outside of his work with Firm Media, Chris serves as a co-founder of the international nonprofit organization Project Boon. As Firm Media’s sister organization, Project Boon devotes itself to addressing food insecurity and providing volunteer opportunities.

Chris is also the managing partner at CASKS Restaurant Group, where he and his team own and operate multiple restaurants in the Greater Los Angeles area.

Firm Media Website | LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Topics Discussed in this Episode

00:00 Introduction to Dental Business Radio
02:05 Meet the Guest: Chris Suchánek
03:31 Marketing Insights and Strategies
05:35 AI and Traditional Marketing
13:34 Market Exclusivity and Client Relations
19:07 Investment in Marketing
33:23 Marketing Strategies and Testing
36:34 The Importance of Measuring ROI
40:15 Speaking Engagements and Topics
44:31 Combat Sports Photography Insights
47:09 Writing for Publications and AI Assistance
54:26 Upcoming Projects and Digital Magazine
59:13 Conclusion and Contact Information

Dental Business Radio covers the business side of dentistry. Host Patrick O’Rourke and his guests cover industry trends, insights, success stories, and more in this wide-ranging show. The show’s guests include successful doctors across the spectrum of dental practice providers, as well as trusted advisors and noted industry participants.

Dental Business Radio is underwritten and presented by Practice Quotient and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. The show can be found on all the major podcast apps and a complete show archive is here.

Practice Quotient

Practice Quotient is the sponsor of Dental Business Radio. Practice Quotient, Inc. serves as a bridge between the payor and provider communities. Their clients include general dentists and dental specialty practices across the nation of all sizes, from completely fee-for-service-only to active network participation with every dental plan possible. They work with independent practices, emerging multi-practice entities, and various large ownership entities in the dental space. Their PPO negotiations and analysis projects evaluate the merits of the various in-network participation contract options specific to your practice’s patient acquisition strategy. There is no one-size-fits-all solution.

Connect with Practice Quotient

Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | X (Twitter)

Mastering Enterprise Risk Management with Steven Lustig, Lustig Global Solutions (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 843)

Steven Lustig, Lustig Global Solutions

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Empowering Women to Prioritize Themselves, with Cynthia Lyles, The Tapestry of Love (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 842)

Cynthia Lyles, The Tapestry of Love

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Chris Lalomia, Founder and CEO, The Trusted Toolbox

The Trusted Toolbox

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

Connect with John Ray:

Rebuilding Life After Gray Divorce, with Author Pat Fenner (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 841)

Pat Fenner, Author and Podcaster

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Finding Divine Purpose in Life’s Journey, with Carter Nelms, Actor (Hello, Self… Episode 60)

Carter Nelms, Actor and Software Engineer

About Hello, Self…

Patricia Leonard, Host of Hello, Self…

Connect with Patricia:

Empowering Intellectually and Developmentally Disabled Adults: A Conversation with Meg Blackwood, CEO of InCommunity (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 840)

Meg Blackwood, CEO, InCommunity

InCommunity

Topics Discussed in this Episode

Renasant Bank supports North Fulton Business Radio

About North Fulton Business Radio and host John Ray

Plant Vogtle and Georgia’s Energy Future, with Kelley Balkcom, Georgia Power (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 103)

Kelley Balkcom, Region Executive, Georgia Power

Georgia Power

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

Scaling with Distributed Remote Teams, with Adam Houlahan, Prominence Global (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 120)

Adam Houlahan, CEO, Prominence Global

Prominence Global

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About The Price and Value Journey

John Ray, Host of The Price and Value Journey

John’s book, The Generosity Mindset: A Journey to Business Success by Raising Your Confidence, Value, and Prices

Connect with John Ray:

The Evolution of Specialty Medical Marketing, with Chris Suchánek, Firm Media (Dental Business Radio, Episode 56)

Chris Suchánek, CEO, Firm Media

Topics Discussed in this Episode

About Dental Business Radio

Practice Quotient

Connect with Practice Quotient

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